This report aims to provide a clearer understanding of how and why enterprises use nationally recognised type of training. It finds that an enterprise's decision to engage in recognised training is not made lightly and decisions are made afresh each time a new training need arises. Successfully embedding training in enterprises involves a three-phase process - engagement, extension and integration. In most cases, it is dependent on: positive initial engagement; extension of training through a 'VET evangelist' who 'sells' the benefits of recognised training and persuades management; and, integration of competency standards associated with recognised training into many human resource processes. The availability of funding strongly influences whether enterprises use recognised training. However, one of the key reasons why more enterprises have not taken up this training is lack of awareness.
There is evidence to indicate that a culture of training and learning is developing in Australia's enterprises. The report utilises the data from a range of Australian Bureau of Statistics surveys to develop a picture of the state of enterprise training in Australia and identifies the key factors that are associated with the provision of industry training. The report concludes that the future challenge for Australia's training system is to meet the fragmented demand for training created by an individualised training market.